Category: Health Alert Network

In response to ongoing influenza A(H5N1) detections in wild birds and backyard flocks in Idaho, and recently reported human cases identified in other states, Idaho clinicians and clinical laboratories are requested to initiate or accelerate testing and subtyping of influenza virus from hospitalized patients to more quickly identify human infections with influenza A(H5N1) and to support appropriate infection control, optimal patient care, and timely case investigation.

Central District Health (CDH) has confirmed that exposure to TB may have occurred at Meridian High School in Meridian between August and November 2024. There is no ongoing risk, and people are safe to attend school and school events as usual.

Central District Health was notified of several reports of mild pneumonia among adolescents and an adult with illness onsets during the last month. Clinical diagnosis was based on chest X-ray findings. Laboratory testing included Streptococcus pneumoniae, influenza, and COVID-19 but an etiologic agent or agents has not been identified.

Central Idaho clinicians are encouraged to consider avian influenza infection in patients who present with influenza-like illness including isolated conjunctivitis or other symptoms of acute respiratory infection and have had recent close contact with animals known or suspected to have avian influenza A virus infection.

Avian influenza A(H5N1) has been detected in cats on farms affected by an ongoing outbreak in dairy cows and backyard bird flocks.

Increase in global and domestic measles cases: ensure everyone 6 months and older traveling internationally and children are current on MMR vaccination.

During the month of January 2024, 3 confirmed cases of pertussis have been reported among Ada County residents with an additional 10 residents in contact with those becoming ill.

An mpox outbreak caused by Clade I Monkeypox virus is spreading through sexually associated transmission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.